Turlock city council candidate profile: Patrick “Pat” Noda

POSTEDOctober 13, 2010 5:01 p.m.

Name: Patrick “Pat” Noda

Age: 90

Occupation: Businessman

Background: I was born in Merced County. I have been a Turlock resident for over 40 years. I received a BA degree in Business Administration with a teaching credential from Central College in Iowa. I have taught for a total of five years. I also have a Bachelor of Divinity degree from McCormick seminary. I sold produce for 25 years, household goods for 12 years. I am presently at the Turlock sales yard, where I have worked the last 15 years.

Q. Why do you think you would make a good council member?

A. I think I would make a good council member for the following reasons: I would be flexible and fair in dealing with all of the problems and people. I have spoken before the city council many times about the transportation hub, the homeless shelter, and other issues that are important to me. I would always work for the “greatest good for the greatest number.” I would bring a wealth of experience and stability to the position.

Q. If elected, what would be your priorities in office?

A. Priorities:

1)I would propose that the city take over the bus system and appoint a manager to run it. We must have a transit hub downtown and have routes like three years ago, when the bus system carried 4-5 thousand more passengers per month than at present. This would help revitalize the downtown area.

2)I would work to have a homeless shelter that would accommodate as many as needed. I would begin with the B Street building and work as fast as possible. There is up to $3 million of federal funds available for this purpose. It is imperative that the city provide shelter for the homeless for the following reasons: It is the humane thing to do and there are so many homeless. They are expensive to the city because they use emergency services so often and they cause more work for the police. In providing the shelter I would use as much volunteer help as possible.

3)I would attempt to assure that the city provides as much service as possible for the least amount of money. Points 1 and 2 above would accomplish this. This principle is illustrated in the case of the gas tax revenues which should be reserved for improving the streets.

In conclusion, if elected, I would perform with diligence and perseverance any duties required.